The Parks, Recreation & Cemetery Commission unanimously voted to add an amendment to Title 12 of the Benicia Municipal Code, taking the first step to prohibit alcohol in parks without a permit. It will next be submitted to the City Council for approval.

The amendment is intended to remove the allowance of alcoholic beverages and its consumption within designated city parks unless specifically permitted by the city.
Police say this amendment change will decrease the number of calls for services at city parks, allow officers to hold those who cause pollution at the park accountable and give Benicia police the ability to hold the person who reserves the area accountable for allowing others to consume too much alcohol. Police believe the parks will be more family friendly and safer for children, under this amendment.

There are no budgetary impacts associated with this project. Staff recommended the Parks Commission prohibit the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages in city parks without picnic area reservations or special event permits.

Other Cities with similar policies include Napa, Fairfield, Martinez and Pleasant Hill.

In other businesses, a consensus was reached for updating Fitzgerald Field Stadium. Three preliminary design concepts have been developed by the city for replacing the Fitzgerald Field Stadium. Through a discussion with the public, it was decided the third stadium design is the best design for the update.

Through Measure C, the Fitzgerald Field Stadium project is funded by $750,000. Fundraising will be needed to make up the ramping cost for the implementing the stadium.
According to the city, Fitzgerald Field Stadium must be updated due to shallow water tables, stormwater overflow, expected rising of sea levels and growing maintenance costs to keep the current aging structure safe.

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